Responsibilities: The role of the Cultural Diversity Council (CDC) is to foster a climate of mutual respect among the many diverse groups and communities in Matthews; improve communications between these groups and communities and the Town government and leaders; to offer input to Town and community issues; and to encourage discussion of differing viewpoints to promote an understanding in a multicultural environment and increase Matthews’ capacity to become a more culturally competent organization and community. The CDC may also become involved in other tasks as requested by the Board of Commissioners or Town staff and additional subcommittees or task forces may be created as needed.

Composition: The CDC is composed of nine members appointed by the Matthews Board of Commissioners. A staff member acts as liaison to the Committee. It is the intent of the CDC to include members from historically underrepresented and marginalized communities. A membership diversity of race, religion, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, age, physical ability, national origin, cultural identification, and family structure is desired.

Matthews Residency Required: No

Meetings: The CDC meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm at the Matthews town hall.

Appointment Term: Members of the CDC serve two-year terms without a limit on the number of terms a member may serve.

Attendance: Any member, who shall fail to attend at least 75% of the regular and special meetings of the CDC during any one-year period, shall be subject to removal. The Chairperson shall notify the Matthews Board of Commissioners of any member who shall so fail to attend. The vacancy can be filled, upon recommendation of the Committee liaison and Chairperson, by the Matthews Board of Commissioners.